Which of the following would be most useful in following gene expression in a yeast cell?


a. Southern blot
b. PCR
c. DNA microarray
d. Restriction enzymes

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the goal: The question asks which method is most useful for following gene expression in a yeast cell. Gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products like RNA or proteins.
2. Review each option's purpose: - Southern blot is used to detect specific DNA sequences in DNA samples. - PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplifies DNA sequences but does not directly measure gene expression. - DNA microarray measures the expression levels of many genes simultaneously by detecting mRNA levels. - Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences and are tools for DNA manipulation, not for measuring gene expression.
3. Identify which technique directly measures gene expression: Since gene expression involves mRNA production, methods that detect or quantify mRNA are most relevant. DNA microarrays detect mRNA levels, reflecting gene expression patterns.
4. Eliminate options that do not measure gene expression: Southern blot and PCR focus on DNA, not RNA expression levels. Restriction enzymes are tools for cutting DNA, not for measuring expression.
5. Conclude that the DNA microarray is the most useful technique for following gene expression in yeast cells because it allows simultaneous monitoring of many genes' expression by detecting their mRNA.

Key Concepts

Gene Expression

Gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products like RNA or proteins. Monitoring gene expression helps understand which genes are active under certain conditions, especially in organisms like yeast.

Southern Blot and PCR

Southern blot is a technique used to detect specific DNA sequences, while PCR amplifies DNA segments. Both methods analyze DNA presence or quantity but do not directly measure gene expression, which involves RNA or protein levels.

DNA Microarray

DNA microarray technology allows simultaneous measurement of expression levels of thousands of genes by detecting mRNA abundance. It is a powerful tool for tracking gene expression patterns in cells like yeast under various conditions.